Unstuffed Cabbage Soup

Warm up with a hearty bowl of Unstuffed Cabbage Soup, a comforting dish that combines all the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls without the hassle. This savory soup features seasoned ground beef, fire-roasted tomatoes, and tender cabbage, all simmered together to create a rich and satisfying meal.

Perfect for chilly evenings, this easy recipe comes together in just one pot, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. With the added goodness of rice to thicken the broth, it’s a delightful and nutritious option that the whole family will love!

Unstuffed Cabbage Soup

Ingredients:

1 1/2 lbs of burger

a large onion

2 cans of fire roasted tomatoes

a can of tomato sauce

4 cups of water

salt,

garlic powder

parsley

onion powder,

salt

pepper

a whole head cabbage

beef broth powder

beef broth

rice

Instructions:

Brown 1 1/2 lbs of burger with a large onion.

Add 2 cans of fire roasted tomatoes and a can of tomato sauce and about 4 cups of water.

I use seasoning salt, garlic powder and some parsley and onion powder, salt and pepper.

I love cabbage so I cut up a whole head and threw that in.

Let it simmer for about an hour and added a cup of uncooked rice.

Taste it through cooking and sometimes add some beef broth or beef broth powder if needed.

This rice will thicken it too so broth may be needed. Just season to your taste! It will be thicker the next day like a stew but you can add some more beef broth or water!

Notes:

Meat Variations: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Cabbage Types: While green cabbage is traditional, you can experiment with other varieties like savoy or Napa cabbage for a different texture and flavor.

Cooking Time: For a richer flavor, consider simmering the soup longer than an hour. This allows the flavors to meld even more.

Rice Options: If you prefer, you can use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice. Just be aware that cooking times may vary, and you might need to adjust the liquid accordingly.

Storage and Reheating: This soup thickens as it sits, so you may need to add extra broth or water when reheating leftovers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for longer storage.

Seasoning Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Adding crushed red pepper flakes can give the soup a nice kick, while Italian seasoning can enhance the flavor profile.

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Serving Suggestions: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Consider topping it with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1 cup

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a different flavor and dietary preference.

Is there a low-sodium option for this soup?

Certainly! You can opt for low-sodium fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth to reduce the overall sodium content.

Adjusting the salt to taste can also help control sodium intake.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, the flavors often intensify if you let it sit.

Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze portions for longer storage.

Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Is the rice necessary, and can I use a different grain?

The rice adds thickness to the soup.

If you prefer a grain-free option, you can omit the rice or substitute it with cauliflower rice or quinoa for a healthier twist.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker or Instant Pot.

Brown the meat and sauté the onions before transferring everything to your chosen appliance.

Adjust cooking times according to the device you’re using.

Can I use a different type of cabbage in this recipe?

Certainly! While the recipe calls for a whole head of cabbage, you can experiment with different varieties like green or savoy cabbage for a slight flavor variation.

Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based alternatives like lentils, textured vegetable protein (TVP), or your favorite meat substitute.

Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a fully vegetarian option.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Of course! Feel free to customize the soup by adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I make this soup in a larger batch for meal prep?

Certainly! This soup is great for meal prepping.

Simply double or triple the ingredients, and store individual portions in the refrigerator or freezer for quick and convenient meals.

How can I adjust the thickness of the soup?

If you find the soup too thick, you can add more beef broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

On the other hand, if you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of liquid or add more rice during the cooking process.

Adjust seasonings accordingly.